Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola Assesses Apapa-Ijora Bridge Project, Says Rail To Provide Alternative

 

 

The Federal Government is doing all within its power to ensure heavy cargo is moved from ports using the railways, a top government official has said.

The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, told reporters in Apapa over the weekend that the rail system would provide reliable alternative for movement of heavy goods from the ports to other parts of Nigeria.
The Minister was in Lagos to inspect the abandoned bridge and trailer park in Apapa dedicated to trucks.

He also viewed ongoing work along the Apapa-Ijora Bridge, where he asked the contractor to come up with a comprehensive engineering evaluation of the bridge to allow for quick maintenance, repair and reconstruction.

Mr Fashola told reporters that the bridge repairs were being undertaken to ensure adequate security and improve users’ experience.
“We are looking at how we can change the structure of the bridge and also help to improve the security of the area.
“The commuter experience in this area is also something we want to improve.
“We are waiting for the final details and hoping that we will get them in good enough time so that we can then make budgetary and appropriation proposal for them to start the work in full speed next year.


 


A 240 metre bridge project was awarded in 2009, with the bridge set aside for heavy duty vehicles returning to port, but it is still under construction in 2016.

“We have not finished it. There is no money. We did not fund it at the time were were earning over $100 per barrel of oil. The contractors have left site.
“The meetings I have been having with them is to bring them back to work.
“Unfortunately, the appropriation did not deal with it this years. I hope that it will next year,” the Minister stated.

He expressed optimism that the government would be able to revive the old rail tracks and open it up for movement of cargoes.